Over 17 000 suspects have been arrested in Operation Shanela nationwide, said the South African Police Service (SAPS).
“[A total] 17 054 suspects [were] arrested, 266 for rape and 155 firearms seized during this week’s nationwide Operation Shanela,” said the police.
The arrests were made between 27 July and 2 August.
According to the police, 2 911 wanted suspects were arrested for serious and violent crimes, such as murder, attempted murder, car hijackings, rape, house and business robbery. A further 179 suspects were arrested for murder.
A total 1 763 individuals were arrested for assault grievous bodily harm (GHB), while 246 people were arrested for dealing in drugs.
Fifteen suspects were arrested for human trafficking, while 2 406 for drug possession.
Meanwhile, 1 805 rounds of ammunition and 155 firearms, as well as 53 hijacked and stolen vehicles were recovered.
Other takedowns made by the police include the arrest of a 25-year-old suspect from São Paulo, who was intercepted attempting to smuggle cocaine valued at R4.2 million. The suspect was arrested at OR Tambo International Airport. – SAnews.gov.za
